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IFE launches website, social media platforms

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:46:22 GMT

IFE Services, a leading provider of in-flight entertainment solutions to the airline industry based in UK, has announced the launch of a new website and social media platforms.

IFE professionals across the globe can now connect with the company via its website, follow it on Twitter, become a friend on Facebook and view its original production work on YouTube, said a senior official.

The new website includes a raft of innovative features to improve the user experience. Visitors can now view a sample of the content service provider’s (CSP) hottest movies, TV shows and music for enjoyment in-flight.

“Our fresh, modern new website has been designed to give the IFE community a clear understanding of how we can help them,” remarked Andy McEwan, CEO of IFE Services.

“Together with our social media platforms, we are now in a very strong position to engage with the IFE industry on a much more personal and interactive level,” he stated.

An interactive carousel showcases some of the company’s original production work including safety films, destination and promotional videos, GUIs, pre-recorded announcements (PRAMs) and entertainment guides.

The IFE Support Centre is an educational resource designed to help IFE professionals with many of the challenges they face in their day-to-day roles. The website also acts a hub for IFE Services’ social media channels which allow people to connect with the company on a more informal basis.-TradeArabia News Service

Bahrain hotel occupancy doubles in March

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:46:22 GMT

Hotel occupancy rates in Bahrain rose by 112 per cent to reach almost half capacity last month compared with the same period last year as the economic recovery from last year's unrest continues, a report said.

Bahrain also saw a massive 143pc growth in revenue per available room (RevPAR) to $97.96 and a 14.6 per cent rise in average daily rates (ADR) - room revenue divided by the total number of rooms sold, according to the report from London-based STR Global.

The figures do not include occupancy rates connected to the successful hosting of this month's Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, which businessmen estimated could generate up to $500 million for the economy.

'During March, hotels across Middle East, northern and southern Africa reported improving occupancy levels,' said STR Global managing director Elizabeth Randall.

'In other parts of the region, signs of stabilisation can be seen in the strong RevPAR improvements in Bahrain, Lebanon and Jordan.”

'Additional increases of more than 20 per cent were reported by Saudi Arabia and Oman, as well,” she added. – TradeArabia News Service

Starwood to manage new Sheraton hotel in Erbil

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:46:22 GMT

Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, which currently operates about 50 hotels in the Middle East, has signed an agreement with BCD Company to manage a new-build Sheraton hotel in Erbil, scheduled to open in 2015.

The Sheraton Erbil Hotel will mark the re-entry of Starwood in the country after 20 years.

Located in the new part of the city, approximately 10 minutes from Erbil International Airport, the Sheraton Erbil Hotel is situated along the new ring road offering easy access to the city and its key attractions such as the historic Citadel, Sami Abdul Rahman Park, the largest green area in the region, and downtown Erbil.

“We are delighted to partner with BCD as we re-introduce Starwood to Iraq with Sheraton, our most iconic brand,” said Roeland Vos, president, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe, Africa and Middle East.

“The opening of the new Sheraton Erbil Hotel further underlines Starwood’s commitment to growth and expansion in the region.”

Saad Aldoski, partner, BCD Co. said: “We are excited to work with Starwood and the Sheraton brand on our first hotel development in Erbil. We believe that our partnership with a globally recognised hotel operator such as Starwood will set new hospitality milestones in Iraq and that Sheraton’s strong reputation will assist in further supporting Erbil as the country’s commercial hub.”

The new Sheraton Erbil Hotel will comprise 221 guest rooms and 39 suites. The hotel will also feature extensive dining, conference and leisure facilities as well as signature Sheraton amenities including the all-white Sheraton Sweet Sleeper bed, a Sheraton Club Lounge and Sheraton Fitness programmed by Core Performance as well as a signature spa, including an indoor and outdoor pool.

The hotel’s business facilities will feature a 720-square metre ballroom, a conference centre, four meeting rooms and a business centre including six private offices. The hotel will also feature Link@SheratonSM experienced with Microsoft, a unique communications hub delivering the technology modern guests expect and require while on the road.

Located in northern Iraq, Erbil is the capital of the Kurdistan Autonomous Region and is emerging as the country’s commercial hub. The city is served by Erbil International Airport with a growing number of international airlines connecting through Erbil. – TradeArabia News Service

Al Ain hotel to re-open doors next month

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:46:21 GMT

One of Abu Dhabi’s longest running hotel properties, Ain Al Fayadha, will re-open its doors next month in Al Ain after three years, under new management and a $10 million renovation.

Owned by Al Qudra Holding and managed by, One To One Hotels, the 36 sq km property – which will be renamed One To One Resort, Ain Al Fayadha, will open in two phases, a statement from an official said.

The first, which comes online next month, will include 56 luxury one and two bedroom villas as well as a signature, contemporary restaurant set on a boating lake, the statement said.

Phase two, which is scheduled for end of June, will include the re-opening of the 26-room boutique four-star hotel, two additional restaurants, spa, gym, salon, three swimming pools, children’s playground, tennis, volleyball and football pitches and a traditional 1,000 seater Arabic tent for socialising, eating and relaxing in Jebel Hafeet, the emirate’s highest outcrop.

In addition, a dedicated race track for camel and horse racing, as well as instruction, will also run as part of the second phase, and open to the public and guests, it said.

Philippe Harb, hotel manager, One To One Resort, Ain Al Fayadha, said: “The hotel has a near 30-year legacy in Al Ain and we want to rekindle that nostalgia and create a new, modern experience whilst maintaining the qualities that made the property so special in the first place.”

“We have set ambitious targets in the pursuit of breathing life back into this historic property, and are confident of launching a hotel that seamlessly blends a deep-rooted heritage with a contemporary twist,” he said.

A study is also being undertaken to turn the current duck pond into a fish reserve, allowing guests to catch their dinner and have it prepared at one of the resort’s restaurants. There will be an organic farm with locally-grown products being exclusively used in the hotel’s restaurants.

A golf course is also being developed on site to complement the resort’s offering and is expected to open this summer.

“The hotel has been designed to let guests take advantage of privacy and comfort in their own room. All of our modern hotel rooms and villas are surrounded by natural lush green gardens,” Harb said. “A range of lavish in-room features and amenities complete the ambiance of a home away from home, delivering a modern residential style experience.”

“We are also looking at increasing room stock beyond its original plans with the addition of 30 to 60 luxury VIP tented chalets on site. More details of this will be announced shortly,” he added.

Total number of hotel guest arrivals to Al Ain in 2011 was 266,000, a figure expected to swell to 400,000 by 2013, according to Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority.

Having recently been included in Unesco’s World Heritage List, the city has recently seen an increase of in attraction openings – most notably the Wadi Adventure aqua park which is within walking distance of Ain Al Fayda.

“We are a short walk to a Unesco World Heritage site and the Green Mubazzarah hot springs, a stone’s throw from the family orientated Wadi Adventure waterpark and within driving distance of Al Ain city centre and the Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort. We have something for everyone,” Harb concluded. – TradeArabia News Service

Jumeirah Group plans 16 more hotels

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:46:21 GMT

Jumeirah Group, a Dubai-based global luxury hotel company which operates 20 luxury hotels and residences across 10 global destinations, has a pipeline of 16 hotels under development, the group announced today.

The next openings are scheduled to be in Baku, Dubai and Kuwait, the group, a member of Dubai Holding, said.

The group also reconfirmed its market leader position in terms of hotel performance in Dubai, a statement said.

During the first four months of 2012, its beachfront resorts recorded extended periods of high occupancy averaging at 84.4 per cent, while RevPAR, the industry standard for measuring the rooms’ revenue in relation to rooms available, grew by 18.7 per cent, it said.

Jumeirah’s city hotels also regained their leading position with increased average occupancy of 85.5 per cent and RevPAR growth of 8.4 per cent, it said.

In the USA Jumeirah Essex House continued to benefit from the revival of the corporate travel market and recorded occupancy increase of 4.6 per cent and RevPAR increase of 6.3 per cent year-on-year. In London, Jumeirah Carlton Tower and Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel continued to enjoy robust performance and are preparing for the very busy summer with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the Olympics, said the statement.

Travellers will also benefit from a diversified choice of accommodation with the opening of Grosvenor House Apartments by Jumeirah Living in the prestigious Park Lane in March.

Jumeirah Frankfurt, the group’s first hotel in continental Europe, has already established itself among the market leaders in terms of occupancy and RevPAR.

Jumeirah’s newest hotels in other global destinations – Abu Dhabi, the Maldives and Shanghai – have already gained a reputation as leading luxury properties which was reconfirmed by a number of prestigious international awards. The recently issued Condé Nast Hot List 2012 included no less than four Jumeirah properties - Jumeirah Zabeel Saray in Dubai, Jumeirah Dhevanafushi in the Maldives, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers in Abu Dhabi and Jumeirah Himalayas Hotel in Shanghai – making Jumeirah the most featured brand on this year’s list, the statement said.

Speaking on the eve of the Arabian Hotel Investment Conference in Dubai, Jumeirah Group executive chairman Gerald Lawless said: “I am very pleased to see that the recovery in the Dubai leisure market that we experienced in the second half of 2011 has been sustained and further developed in the first quarter of 2012.

“Jumeirah is now taking its place firmly in the top echelons of global luxury hotel brands and we are well underway to positioning ourselves as one of the leading luxury brands worldwide,” he said.-TradeArabia News Service

IHG in deal to manage InterContinental Muscat

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:46:21 GMT

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group), the world’s largest hotel group by number of rooms, and Muscat Golf Course Project have signed a 20-year management agreement for InterContinental Muscat Hills Golf Resort in Oman.

Signed during the 2012 Arabian Hotel Investment Conference taking place in Dubai, the hotel will form part of the Muscat Hills Golf and Country Club – a 1.2 million sq m development set in a unique hillside location with panoramic mountain and sea views over the Gulf of Oman.

Muscat Hills is a mixed use development with upscale residential villas and apartments, an 18-hole championship golf course, country club and hotel.

InterContinental Muscat Hills Golf Resort will have a total of 250-rooms and four food and beverage outlets, a fitness centre, spa and swimming pool.

The InterContinental team will also manage the golf Club House located next door to the hotel. The hotel and Club House are due to open in 2015 and the project is projected to be worth a total of $90 million.

Rawy Kais Al-Said, owner of the Muscat Hills Golf and Country Club, said: “When choosing a hotel partner we were looking for a top international brand that would add real value to the development and help us to compete with the best golf resorts in the world.”

“InterContinental Hotels & Resorts were exactly the right fit, bringing the quality standards and first class management skills we’re looking for. With the InterContinental team on board I have every confidence the resort will continue to go from strength to strength.”

Jan Smits, IHG’s chief executive for Asia, Middle East and Africa, said: “The Muscat Hills development is already proving a great success and we were eager to become a part of it. InterContinental Muscat Hills Golf Resort will be a new type of resort for Muscat, offering guests a range of sporting facilities in a spectacular setting. This hotel will be a fantastic addition to our growing portfolio in Oman and we look forward to its opening in 2015.”

There are 170 InterContinental Hotels & Resorts in more than 60 countries around the world, with an additional 58 hotels in the global development pipeline. – TradeArabia News Service

'Etihad Guest' wins top awards

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:46:21 GMT

Etihad Airways’ frequent flyer program, Etihad Guest, has won three awards at the 2012 Freddie Awards.

Etihad Guest was recognised for the Best Redemption Ability, Best Elite Programme and Best Loyalty Credit Card among all airlines in the Middle East, Asia and Oceania.

The programme was also runner-up in the four remaining categories: Best Promotion for Earning, Best Promotion for Redemption, Best Customer Service and Programme of the Year, a statement from Etihad said.

Introduced in 1988 by InsideFlyer magazine's Randy Petersen, the "Freddies" have grown to become one of the most prestigious member-generated awards in the travel loyalty industry.

More than 1 million votes are cast annually.

Etihad Guest today has more than 1.5 million members, the statement said. Guest Miles can be used to purchase more than 2,900 products in the airline’s reward shop or converted to make cash payments with PointsPay, an unmatched loyalty proposition.

Peter Baumgartner, chief commercial officer, Etihad Airways, said: “We will continue to enhance Etihad Guest with game-changing innovations, for example PointsPay – an exclusive, real-time transaction solution which allows our members to convert their Etihad Guest Miles into cash to spend any time at 30 million retail and online outlets globally.”

“The cornerstone of Etihad Airways is our guests and we are dedicated to offering a frequent flyer program which is original, exciting and – most of all – rewarding,” he added. “This recognition is a testament to the commitment we have made to our guests.”

“Etihad Guest above credit cards offer a host of benefits to make card membership a rewarding experience, such as a bonus mile for every international purchase, fast-track to elite status, a ‘miles multiplier’ programme that awards bonus miles based on card spend and many other benefits.”

When the Freddies were last awarded in 2009, Etihad Guest was recognised as Best Award Redemption, Best Bonus Promotion, Best Member Communications and Best Web Site. – TradeArabia News Service

ATM to highlight regional tourism potential

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:46:21 GMT

Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2012, the region’s leading travel industry showcase which opens its doors tomorrow (Monday), will highlight the strength of regional destinations.

More than 2,400 exhibitors from 87 countries will take part in the event, being held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai.

ATM 2012, which is expecting 23,000 visitors, is being held at the Dubai International Exhibition and Conference Centre until May 3. The show has grown 7 per cent in size, underlining the strength and growth prospects of the regional tourism industry, said a statement.

Mark Walsh, portfolio director, Reed Travel Exhibitions, speaking ahead of the show said: “The region is embarking on an unparalleled programme of investment and development, with a clear focus on infrastructure enhancement and the goal of driving visitor numbers as well as diversifying their economies.”

“According to the World Travel and Tourism Council almost $38 billion was invested in 2011 to support regional leisure and tourism development. This will rise to $41 billion this year so it is clear that the region is growing rapidly,” he added.

Highlighting the strength of certain regional destinations, Walsh pointed to the UAE, Qatar, Oman and Saudi Arabia.

“The UAE is looking to achieve 9 per cent growth in visitor arrivals in 2012, as the country continues to benefit from unrest elsewhere in the region. The Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) said the emirate of Dubai posted a 10 per cent rise in hotel guests in 2011 against the previous year, welcoming 9.3 million hotel guests and cruise passengers with the average length of stay also rising 12 per cent to 3.6 days. Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority reported a record number of hotel visitors for 2011, with over 2.1 million hotel guests, beating the previous record high of around 1.8 million in 2010,” he said.

Oman’s Ministry of Tourism is concentrating on promoting short breaks and MICE tourism targeting the Gulf and India as it continues its infrastructure development.

“Research by Euromonitor has the Sultanate on a growth spurt, with arrivals growing from just over 1.2 million in 2006 to 2.2 million in 2011,” he added.

Similarly, the number of visitors heading to Qatar is expected to jump to 1.6 million by 2014, according to Euromonitor, up from just under one million in 2009.

“Saudi Arabia is the other regional player taking giant strides towards tourism prominence. Recent figures released by Business Monitor International, see visitors to the Kingdom to reach 15.8 million by 2014, up from around 13 million in 2010. Its hospitality sector is growing in tandem with the country’s ongoing programme of economic diversification,” said Walsh.

Saleh Mohammed Al Geziry, DTCM's director of overseas promotions and inward missions, said:' Dubai tourism industry continues its strong growth despite the global economy still remaining unsettled due to our strong fundamentals and capability to meet the demands and expectations of the tourists and industry players.”

Dubai hotels posted an excellent performance last year in terms of occupancy levels and guest nights. Guest nights rose to 32,848,190 in 2011, an increase of 23 per cent compared with the previous year, he added.

Route expansion plans by the region’s major carriers are also opening up the Gulf and broader Middle East to new markets as combined annual profits reached approximately $1 billion in 2011, according to the International Air Transport Association.

“The Arabian Travel Market has played a pivotal role in the development and success of the region’s travel and tourism industry, functioning as a catalyst to attracting key industry figures from across the globe, to the region. Having supported ATM since its inception, we at Emirates are proud to see it develop into the formidable force it is today,” said Salem Obaidalla, senior vice president – commercial operations (Europe & Russian Fed), Emirates.

“We see ATM as an ideal platform for Emirates to showcase our constant innovation; from our new global brand platform ‘Hello Tomorrow’ - our evolution from a travel brand to a lifestyle brand, to raising awareness for our new for 2012 destinations, as well as various other new initiatives across the Emirates Group.”– TradeArabia News Service

ME travel brands vie for top honours

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:46:21 GMT

The Middle East’s most successful travel brands will vie for top honours at a glittering gala ceremony hosted by World Travel Awards (WTA) in Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa, Dubai on Monday.

The likes of Jumeirah, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Armani Hotel Dubai, Qatar Airways, Emirates Palace and Rotana Hotels are among those in the running for the WTA awards, said the organisers of the WTA awards programme, dubbed as the ‘Oscars of the travel industry.’

The evening coincides with the Arabian Hotel Investment Conference and Arabian Travel Market (April 30 to May 3), which are both taking place in Dubai.

Lebanese singing sensation Carole Samaha will headline the show, with the critically-acclaimed comedian Wonho Chung also set to perform. Ece Vahapoglu of Al Jazeera Turkey will anchor proceedings.

More than 500 of the most important decision-makers in the region’s travel and tourism sector, as well as a host of international media, are set to attend what will be the most important night of the year for Arabian travel.

The WTA awards programme highlights and rewards those travel brands that have made the greatest contribution to the industry over the past year.

After a fierce round of voting featuring more than 2,000 organisations, the nominees have been whittled down to the elite few.

Categories to watch include “Middle East’s Leading Destination” with Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia in contention. Competition for “Middle East’s Leading Hotel” is expected to be fierce, with Emirates Palace (Abu Dhabi), Burj Al Arab (Dubai), Six Senses Zighy Bay (Oman) and the Ritz-Carlton Doha (Qatar) among those going head-to-head.

Graham E. Cooke, the president & founder, WTA, underlines the core strengths of the Middle East nominees.

“Travel and tourism in the Middle East is rebounding strongly following the political and economic challenges of 2011. The winners at our ceremony will be those organisations that have made the greatest contribution to this recovery,” he stated.

“I am delighted that we will be returning to Dubai for what promises to be the most exciting and competitive Middle East Ceremony yet. The emirate is a hotbed of fresh ideas being put into practice, as exemplified by our host, Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa,” he added.

Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa is the flagship resort of Jebel Ali International Hotels, and consists of two five-star properties, Palm Tree Court & Spa, which has recently undergone a full refurbishment, and Jebel Ali Hotel, which offers views over the Arabian Gulf and a championship-standard nine-hole golf course.

David Thomson, the regional general manager of Jebel Ali International Hotels expresses his pleasure at hosting the event, saying: “We are delighted that the leaders of the Middle East travel industry will celebrate their achievements at Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa this Monday. The awards are an accurate representation of excellence and it is a true honour to be nominated alongside other leading hotel groups.”

Other regional heats in WTA’s Grand Tour 2012 will be taking place in the Algarve (Portugal), Nairobi (Kenya), Singapore and Turks & Caicos. The winners of these regional heats will progress to the Grand Final, which will take place at The Oberoi, Gurgaon, New Delhi on December 12.-TradeArabia News Service

RevPAR across region up 10.4pc in Q1

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:46:21 GMT

RevPAR (revenue per available room) across the Middle East rose 10.4 per cent in the first quarter of 2012 compared to 2011– 50 per cent greater than Asia and North America, said an expert.

While these figures varied between the major cities, Dubai claimed occupancy at 86.6 per cent and an average daily rate of more than $250, according to Elizabeth Randall managing director at STR Global.

Randall was speaking at the three-day annual Arabian Hotel Investment Conference (AHIC) 2012, which opened yesterday (April 28) at the Madinat Jumeirah.

“While the average occupancy in the Middle East was 69 per cent, in markets such as Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait, occupancy levels were down,” Randall said.

Moderator Nenad Pacek, president of Global Success Advisors and an expert on emerging markets stressed the role of the oil price in underpinning current and future development: “Most of the growth in the Middle East has been generated by high oil prices, while the Arab Spring contributed to an increase in government spending throughout the region,” he said.

“The fundamentals in the region, particularly the GCC, are among the best in the world given the combination of oil revenues, official reserves and the contribution of sovereign wealth funds,” he added, although warning that all sums could be jeopardised if oil prices were to fall substantially.

Turning to current performance in the hospitality and tourism sectors, more than in past years the region was now divided into winners and losers, with the outcome for the latter dependent on risk perception for investors, according to the latest performance monitors.

Stewart Coggans, regional executive vice president for Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels emphasised the polarisation of regional markets, stressing the role of Dubai as regional leader in terms of performance.

“The market here is equipped to absorb the 12,000 rooms in the pipeline in the city with a healthy balance of 50:50 in terms of corporate and leisure business,” he said. “Abu Dhabi, with an 80:20 split is not as robust with the 2,000 rooms opening in 2011 leading to a decline in average daily rate of 16 per cent.”

Saudi Arabia was expected star performer for developers in the Middle East, meanwhile, with stellar growth in domestic travel and religious tourism, giving Makkah the biggest regional revPAR growth at 33.8 per cent in 2011, as well as a pipeline figure, together with Madinah, of 20,000 rooms.

For the hospitality industry, the figures underlined two contrasting points, according to AHIC organiser, Jonathan Worsley, chairman & CEO Bench Events and Board Member STR Global.

“While oil revenues are sustaining economic growth in the major producing countries and funding development of their travel and tourism industries, we have seen Dubai emerge as a striking example of a market that has thrived and survived with minimal oil reserves but a combination of private and public investment and joint will to balance supply and demand,” he said.

“Oil rich economies are using their wealth to diversify away from dependency on hydrocarbon revenue. This is very prudent and will benefit them in the long run. However, Dubai’s sustainable model could be adopted by non-oil economies,” he added.

Held under the patronage of Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, president Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, chairman Dubai Airports and Chairman and chief executive, Emirates Airline & Group, organiser Meed Events in partnership with Bench Events has attracted more than 80 speakers and over 500 local and international delegates representing more than 40 countries. – TradeArabia News Service

Dubai airport traffic surges 15.4pc in March

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 06:25:41 GMT

Passenger traffic at Dubai International, the world’s fourth busiest hub for passengers and freight, reached 4,848,320 in March, marking an increase of 15.4 per cent compared to 4,201,708 over the same period last year.

The figures for March also marks the airport’s double-digit growth for the third consecutive month, according to the monthly traffic report for March issued by Dubai Airports on Wednesday.

March is also the third consecutive month for Dubai International with passenger numbers exceeding the 4.5 million mark, propelling traffic in the first quarter to 14,261,606, a surge of 16.1 per cent over the corresponding month of 2011, said the report.

Buoyed by traffic growth in the region following the increasing liberalisation of the Saudi Arabian aviation sector, the AGCC continued to top the list of regions with the largest increase in total passenger numbers (+174,537 passengers), followed by Western Europe (+109,364), and Africa (+90,057).

Contraction on Middle Eastern routes continued in March (-23,030 passengers) owing to instability in certain parts of the region. South America has remained the strongest market in terms of percentage passenger growth (+90.9 per cent) as a result of new Emirates services to Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires, followed by Russia and CIS (+47.4 per cent), and Australasia (+40.7 per cent).

Traffic to and from Africa also rose dramatically (+25.7 per cent) due to the addition of Harare and Lusaka to Emirates’ route network, the report said.

During the month under review, Dubai International recorded a total of 29,276 aircraft movements, up 5.8 per cent compared to 27,674 in March 2011. The year to date movements increased 7.9 per cent to reach 86,014, compared to 79,705 recorded during the first quarter in 2011.

Dubai International handled 186,417 tonnes of cargo in March 2012 compared to 185,921 tonnes in March 2011, up 0.3 per cent. Cargo volumes during the first quarter rose slightly with freight volumes reaching 517,440 tonnes, an increase of 1.1 per cent compared to 512,057 tonnes during the corresponding period in 2011.

“New routes and additional frequencies are building on the magnetic attraction of Dubai’s hub as a premier leisure and business destination and a convenient connecting point for global travellers,” said Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports.

“As growth continues to pick up in almost all markets, both traditional and new, the outlook for the second quarter is similarly positive,” he added. – TradeArabia News Service

Firm invests $2.66bn in Makkah hotel projects

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 06:25:41 GMT

Saudi Arabia’s Abdul Latif Jameel Real Estate Investment Company (ALJREIC) is investing SR10 billion ($2.66 billion) in developing new hotels in Makkah, its chairman said.

Yousef Abdul Latif Jameel said the company is developing Jabal Al Kaaba project, investing up to SR6 billion in land and SR4 billion in the construction of hotels.

Jabal Al Kaaba project will deliver a fresh supply of 8,500 hotel rooms in a cluster of hotels over the next few years.

ALJREIC is also launching a new Saudi hospitality brand, Anjum Hotels, which is inspired by the Saudi Hijazi culture.

Anjum Makkah, the brand’s flagship hotel and the first to be developed within the project, consists of 1,795 rooms and suites and will open in the first quarter of 2013, to receive guests visiting Makkah for Haj and Umrah. The project is located in front of the Holy Haram.

“The Holy City of Makkah has been witnessing a construction boom, with the implementation of major projects to cater to the needs of citizens, visitors and pilgrims,” said Jameel “Saudi Arabia is currently experiencing an unprecedented development period under the wise leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah.”

ALJREIC is currently developing a total area of 54,000 sq m for 5-star hotels in Makkah to help address the growing demand in the tourism industry, he said.

The Saudi Commission for Tourism & Antiquities (SCTA) has revealed in its latest report that Saudi Arabia will attract 88 million visitors by 2020, in line with its plans to develop the domestic and business tourism in addition to developing the tourism for religious purposes. The number of visitors for tourism and religious purposes in particular is expected to reach 15.8 million by 2014, compared to 13 million in 2010. –TradeArabia News Service

BA revamps lounge at Dubai airport

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 06:25:40 GMT

British Airways (BA) has completed major renovation of its lounge in Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 1.

The refurbishment allows premium customers and eligible Executive Club members to relax in even more comfort before their flight, a statement said.

The refreshed lounge has a modern yet comfortable feel which is complemented by ambient lighting, providing customers with a great environment to catch up on work or relax before their flight. There is also a new menu and improved food and beverage facilities, according to the statement.

Paolo De Renzis, regional commercial manager, Middle East said: “The update to our Lounge at Dubai International Airport is just one of the many enhancements that our Middle Eastern customers will start to see as a result of our investment for customers. Our investment will make life more comfortable for customers both on the ground and in the sky.” – TradeArabia News Service

JLL Hotels names new director MEA

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 06:25:40 GMT

Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) Hotels, a leading real estate investment and hospitality advisory firm, has appointed Gabriel Matar as its new head of Hotels for the Middle East and Africa.

Before accepting his new role Matar was leading Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels team in Paris since 2006. Previously Matar was managing the hospitality and tourism division at KPMG for France.

Matar has bespoke experience with landmark properties such as palace hotels and SPA hotels, having worked on several large and high profile renovation projects and valuations, a statement said.

Matar takes over from Jalil Mekouar, who has been leading Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels Middle East & Africa for the last five years. Jalil will relocate to Chicago, with Jones Lang LaSalle as chief operating officer - Americas and managing director - Strategic Advisory and Asset Management.

Mark Wynne-Smith, global CEO of Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels said: “Gabriel brings a wealth of international experience to the Middle East and Africa market and we are delighted to welcome him as our new head of Hotels for the Middle East & Africa region. He will be responsible for developing and expanding our operations in the region which have grown significantly in recent years under Jalil’s leadership.”

“Despite the global financial crisis, problems in the Eurozone and the Arab Spring, the travel and tourism industry continues to be a beacon of relative growth and stability for this region as it continues to expand as a major global leisure and business destination. Gabriel’s expertise will be invaluable as both domestic and international hospitality brands continue to grow their operations.”

Matar added: “The travel and tourism industry has continued to grow significantly over the longer term in the past few decades. The Middle East and Africa has very much been at the forefront in defining the ultimate luxury and corporate experience and continues to attract ever increasing numbers of regional and international travellers.”

“However, as the sector has matured, so we are also seeing growth in some of the other hospitality brands to cater for an increasingly diverse range of tastes, budgets and other requirements. It’s an exciting time for the sector in this part of the world,” he added.

Matar holds a Master’s degree in Real Estate and two post graduate degrees in tourism economics and sales and marketing from France. He is also a member of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors and a Registered Real Estate Valuer. – TradeArabia News Service

Saudi to award new airline licences in Sept

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 06:25:39 GMT

Saudi Arabia will clear new carriers for takeoff in September, the kingdom's aviation authority said on Wednesday, granting airline licences for the right to operate both local and international flights.

Khalid Al-Khaibary, the spokesman for General Authority for Civil Aviation (GACA), said 14 companies had applied for licences and the government had yet to decide on how many carriers it would authorise.

'The requests for proposals will be handed toward the end of May with a deadline to receive bids by the end of August.

Winners will be awarded licenses in September,' Al-Khaibary told Reuters by telephone.

National carrier Saudi Airlines and budget airline National Air Services (NAS) now serve a domestic market of around 27 million people.

But with a price cap on domestic flights, private airlines have struggled with their profit margins. In 2010, a third carrier, Sama Airlines, was forced to suspend its operations.

Saudi Airlines, which is undergoing a slow privatisation process, receives fuel at subsidized prices unlike private carriers, allowing it to offset the limits of the ticket cost ceiling. – Reuters

New corporate affairs VP for Etihad

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 06:25:39 GMT

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, today announced that Michael Venus will take charge of the company’s corporate affairs department.

Venus, who has been the airline’s head of International Media Relations since June 2011, has been appointed vice president corporate affairs, with immediate effect. He will be responsible for Etihad Airways’ public affairs and corporate communications, including global media relations, social media strategy, internal communications, corporate social responsibility, environmental affairs and corporate events, said a statement.

Venus, an award-winning journalist, brings more than 30 years of media experience to the position. His career began in Australian newspapers covering aviation, transport and politics. He was also a daily columnist, feature writer and investigative journalist. He then made the transition to television news as a senior on-camera reporter with the Nine Network before being appointed chief of staff at National Nine News in Melbourne. It was a position he held for more than a decade. In 2003 he assumed complete editorial and management control when he was appointed director of news. After seven years in the role he relocated to the UAE.

James Hogan, president and chief executive officer of Etihad Airways, said: “Michael brings a wide range of skills and experience to this role. He will help us move up to the next level in our global communications.”

Hogan thanked Belinda de Rome who moves on after three years at Etihad as senior vice president corporate affairs. – TradeArabia News Service

Ferrari World set to launch new events

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 06:25:38 GMT

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the world’s largest indoor themed park, has announced a brand new experiential ride, a new show production and a packed calendar of family-friendly activities for the year ahead.

“We are only in our second year and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi has already carved out a place for itself as a must-visit attraction in the UAE and one of its most unique, popular and sought-after family entertainment destinations,” said Raquel Lopez, director of Marketing & Sales, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.

“The Park combines international brand recognition with a compelling offering that appeals to all age-groups. There’s nothing like Ferrari World Abu Dhabi anywhere in the world and the new additions to the Park go a step further in bringing the incredible Ferrari story to life in new and exciting ways,” she added.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi launched ‘Viaggio in Italia’ – one of the Park’s most technologically-advanced simulator rides that lifts guests into a giant inverted dome and takes them on a virtual flying journey over Italy.

Once locked into the ride, guests go on a multi-sensory aerial adventure through Italy’s breathtaking countryside and cityscapes, pursuing a Ferrari along the course of the famous Mille Miglia road rally.

“We will also debut a stunning new entertainment show soon after Ramadan. The show will replace La Gara and in the true spirit of Ferrari and Italy, it is set to be a lively and spectacular production,” said Lopez.

In addition, Park visitors are in for a jam-packed calendar of exciting themed events and activities – from Italian-themed festivals along the lines of the super successful Italia! Italia! Festival held in April to special Ramadan, Eid and National Day activities and F1 screenings from cities all around the world.

“With guests from more than 50 countries from around the world and many repeat guests – especially from the UAE and the GCC region – it’s important to keep the Park’s offering vibrant and fresh. We have a packed calendar in place for the months ahead and guests can look forward to a very exciting ride,” said Lopez.

“From high intensity rides to engaging and interactive attractions, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi undoubtedly offers an unforgettable experience.”

“Delegates visiting our stand at ATM will be able to learn more about the creative and extensive marketing support we offer our partner agents to help them meet their own business goals while promoting Ferrari World Abu Dhabi to their clients,” added Lopez.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi will exhibit during ATM – the region’s largest travel and tourism events which takes place from April 30 – May 3 at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. – TradeArabia News Service

Jazeera Airways approves 10pc bonus shares

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 06:25:38 GMT

Kuwait-based budget carrier Jazeera Airways Group said it has won approval from the annual general meeting for distribution of 10 per cent bonus shares to its investors.

Announcing this on Wednesday, Jazeera said the shareholders approved the board’s recommendation following a record-breaking year in which the airline earned record KD10.6 million ($38.1 million) in net profit with an earnings per share of 48 fils.

Besides, the Kuwaiti budget carrier also a registered a record KD57.8 million in revenue, up 36 per cent from 2010, and a record KD14.9 million in operating profit.

These results reflect the success of the company’s Turn-Around Plan that was implemented in second quarter 2010 and had steered the company into continued profitability for the last six quarters, said a top official.

Commenting on the results, Jazeera Airways Group chairman Marwan Boodai said, '2011 was a record-breaking year despite the continued over capacity, the impact of political unrest on travel within our network, and an increasing fuel cost.'

'Jazeera Airways today has a solid network, increasing load factors, reduced cost, high aircraft utilization, in addition to an aircraft leasing arm with assets deployed across the globe, from the US to the Middle East to Asia. Jazeera Airways Group today has a sustainable business model that has generated sustainable profitability quarter-on-quarter for six quarters in-a-row,” he added.

Following the AGM, the board held an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders to gain approval for amending the articles of association to take into account the change in capital resulting from the bonus share issuance.

The shareholders also approved the change of the company’s capital from KD22 million to KD24.2 million by issuing 22 million ordinary shares (the bonus shares) at a nominal value of 100 fils to the share.-TradeArabia News Service

IATA Mena appoints new vice president

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:43:15 GMT

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has appointed Hussein Dabbas as regional vice president for the Mena region, based in Amman, Jordan, with effect from June 1.

Dabbas has served as president and CEO of Royal Jordanian Airlines since 2009, during which he held various positions in the airline’s commercial departments.

Dabbas takes over from Dr Majdi Sabri who will retire from IATA after the leading the association in the region since 2001.

"Aviation is a critical component of the region’s development and exhibits a tremendous potential for growth. In the Middle East alone, the aviation sector currently supports 2.7 million jobs and $129 billion in economic activity. I look forward to leading IATA’s efforts regionally to ensure that aviation can continue be an economic catalyst by growing safely, securely and sustainably,” said Dabbas.

The Association has 28 member airlines across Mena, including some of the fastest growing airlines in the world. From its Amman regional office, IATA supports the Mena region with access to the full range of IATA’s activities, programmes and services.

This includes flagship programmes such as the IATA operational safety audit, simplifying the business, and checkpoint of the future as well as the full range of its industry settlement systems. – Reuters

New park opens in Bahrain

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:43:14 GMT

A new BD240,000 ($635,500) development, called Hamad Town Gardens, covering an area of 5,135 sq m and featuring several grassy areas, two playgrounds, football areas and public toilets has opened in Bahrain.

It is located near Hamad Town's Roundabout Two and was opened yesterday (April 23) by Northern Municipality director-general Yousif Al Ghatam.

'This project comes as an implementation of the Bahrain Economic Vision 2030 plan which was set up by the Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Ministry,' said Al Ghatam.

'We at the Northern Municipality are trying to bring many projects to reality to achieve our goal which is fulfilling people's aspirations.

'Hamad Town does not have many green areas, therefore this park will be a good place for people to enjoy walks, talks and spare time.'

It follows the opening of another park in the Northern Governorate, Janabiya Public Park, on March 1 as part of the Northern Parks Friends scheme.

The initiative was launched by Al Ghatam to help protect public parks from sabotage and to spread environmental awareness.

'The Park Friends are volunteers in the Northern Parks Friends scheme who are helping in monitoring the upkeep of the parks,' he explained. 'They will get the support of the municipality and the people.'

A third new park in the Northern Governorate, the Prince Khalifa Educational Park, is also on the cards after getting the green light from the Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Ministry.

'This park is one of a series of parks that will be built in this area,' said Northern Municipal Council member Khalid Al Ka'abi.

'It came as a result of co-operation between the executive system and the Municipal Council, who are trying to develop the area and enhance facilities within the budget. The idea was given to Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Minister Dr Juma Al Ka'abi, who agreed to construct the park on an area covering 6,200 sq m. We would love to see this become a reality soon, with the co-operation of Al Ghatam.'

Al Ghatam was accompanied at yesterday's opening by other senior officials including municipal councillors, MP Mohammed Al Ammadi and Northern Governorate deputy governor Jassim Al Wafi. – TradeArabia News Service

Abu Dhabi posts 17pc growth in hotel guests

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:43:13 GMT

Abu Dhabi has registered double-digit growth in both hotel guests and guest nights during the first quarter of 2012 compared to the same period last year, according to figures released by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority.

Announcing the emirate's record performance, Mubarak Al Muhairi, the director general of Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority said, 'A total of 594,918 guests stayed in the UAE capital’s 130 hotels and hotel apartments from January to March end this year posting a 17 per cent increase over last year.

The guest nights too surged with a 10 per cent jump year-on-year over the same three-month period to stand at 1.725 million.

According to Al Muhairi, the guest arrivals growth was recorded across all key regional markets with the exception of North America.

Domestic tourism held up well producing 212,597 guests and 401,347 guest nights posting a growth of 11 per cent and 8 per cent on the comparative period last year. Strong growth also came from the GCC – which delivered 57 per cent more hotel guests than in the first quarter last year.

“The GCC is increasingly productive for us and we can look forward to further growth from this sector as Etihad, our national airline recently increased its frequency from Kuwait to Abu Dhabi by four flights a week and added an additional three weekly flights from Damman in Saudi Arabia to the UAE capital,” the tourism chief said.

“In addition, our on-the-ground presence in Saudi Arabia, which will shortly be formalised into a fully fledged office, is producing greater destination awareness and trade relationships and we will be reaching out to the Saudi consumer at next month’s Riyadh Travel Fair,” he added.

According to Al Muhairi, Saudi Arabia is now the emirate’s fourth most productive overseas source market for hotel guests with some 22,107 Saudi nationals staying in Abu Dhabi in the first quarter of the year, up 69 per cent over last year.

They accounted for some 49, 489 guest nights – again a 69 per cent increase on the same period in 2011, Muhairi said, citing official data.

Kuwait, Oman and Qatar also produced double-digit hotel guest and guest night growth for Abu Dhabi during the period, said the top official.

“Our GCC neighbours, with the exception of Bahrain, now rank among Abu Dhabi’s 'Top 25' longest-staying guests,” Al Muhairi added.

According to him, the hotel guest growth from Asia was up 37 per cent, driven largely by increased traction from China. Some 8,941 Chinese nationals stayed in the emirate’s hotels in Q1 – a jump of 86 per cent on the equivalent period last year - delivering 16,302 guest nights, a 61 per cent rise on last year’s January-through-March contribution.

“Having just completed a five city road show across China we are confident of building momentum from the country,” revealed Al Muhairi.

“This year has seen major advancements in air accessibility from China with Etihad introducing a five-times-weekly flight from Shanghai and striking partnerships with regional airlines within the Republic to expand our outreach,” he added.

During the first quarter this year, hotel guests from Europe climbed 17 per cent with much of the growth primarily influenced by Germany, which grew 46 per cent in terms of hotel guests to 27,751 and 40 per cent in guest nights to 114,006.

“We attribute Germany’s excellent performance largely to the substantial boost in air access delivered by Etihad’s opening, last December, of its Dusseldorf-Abu Dhabi route and we’ll benefit further by Air Berlin now flying thrice-daily, non-stop services to Abu Dhabi, including direct flights from Berlin and Dusseldorf,” added Al Muhairi.

The UK remains Abu Dhabi’s top performing hotel guest source market, though numbers slipped 2 per cent in the first quarter of the year compared to 2011. From January to March end, some 37,095 British stayed in the emirate’s hotels, translating into 159,216 guest nights, he stated.

According to Al Muhairi, India ranked second, accounting for 31,564 hotel guests and delivering 112,681 guest nights – a 15 per cent increase on Q1 last year.

However, the average length of stay during the first three months of 2012 slipped slightly, dropping 5 per cent to 2.90, he pointed out.

“This is now the focus of our efforts – to convince people that there is so much more to see and do in Abu Dhabi that they should extend their stay,” remarked Al Muhairi. “We are working hard on a trade engagement policy to improve distribution and dissemination of this message,” he added.

According to him, the occupancy rates dipped 6 per cent over the comparative period which the authority says is a simple result of supply and demand dynamics.

“We have more accommodation product in the market – which has increased choice and competitiveness to the traveller – an advantage we are now determined to leverage,” explained Al Muhairi.

The overall hotel revenues, he said, rose one per cent to Dh1.2 billion ($362 million), with the first quarter’s average room rate coming in at Dh500 ($136), he added.-TradeArabia News Service

Amadeus launches new solution in Qatar

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:43:13 GMT

Leading travel technology partner and transaction processor for the global travel and tourism industry, Amadeus, has announced the launch of 'Amadeus Offers' in the Qatar market.

The unique and innovative solution revolutionises and streamlines demand management allowing travel agents to increase productivity and revenues, enhance customer satisfaction and optimise operations management, a statement said.

The solution ensures smarter business intelligence that is beneficial to both customers and the company, the statement from Amadeus said.

This is achieved through an effective combination of cutting-edge technology and fully integrated functionality that facilitates travel agents to propose, store and exchange travel proposals with travellers via a central, cross-channel facility, the statement said.

Wafiq al Wahidi, general manager, Amadeus Qatar, said: “Today’s competitive environment makes it imperative for travel agents to be more creative in the way they conduct business to stay ahead of the game. Recognising this need, Amadeus consistently strives towards developing new and innovative solutions that will help our customers maximise profits and productivity.”

“Amadeus is the first global distribution system (GDS) to provide travel professionals with a comprehensive demand management solution. From handling trip proposals in the pre-booking phase to offering alternative travel arrangements after departure, Amadeus Offers boasts a complete suite of efficiency solutions,” he said.

Aimed at business and leisure travel agencies, as well as corporations and travel management companies (TMC), the solution helps pre-booking activities by storing travel data in a single location, the statement said.

In addition, the travel data bank provides the opportunity to generate reports that analyse pre-booking behaviours and trends of the customers, measure pre-sale activity and provide cost-saving reports to show realised savings, a valuable source of information to optimise operations management, it said.

The automated processes of Amadeus Offers reduce average time spent on trip management by as much as 60 per cent. Using the existing booking flow, trip quotations are stored in the same passenger name record as the itinerary, providing an instant view of a traveller’s options.

Proposals can be quickly and easily exchanged via e-mail using the ‘offer notice’, providing clear information for decision making.

Agents will also be able to identify the most frequently confirmed travel proposals, which helps tailor trips according to customer needs, the statement said.

Amadeus Offers for air and hotel content can currently be used with all versions of Amadeus Cryptic and Amadeus Selling Platform command page.

Integration with Web Services, Amadeus e-Travel Management and CheckMyTrip will follow over the next year to provide full cross channel consistency, it said.

Amadeus is currently present in the Mena region through 17 local Amadeus Commercial Organisations (ACOs) that service 21 countries. – TradeArabia News Service

Air Arabia to host Arab aviation summit

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:43:12 GMT

Sharjah-based budget carrier Air Arabia is set to host the second edition of 'The Arab Aviation and Media Summit,' an annual event that discusses key issues regarding the aviation sector in the Arab World.

Organised in association with CNBC Arabia and the American University of Sharjah, the summit will be held at the American University of Sharjah on April 30 under the theme “Mobility in the Middle East.”

The summit will bring together industry experts and regional media to discuss the growth of the Arab aviation sector and how it led to increased mobility in the wider Mena region, said the organisers.

The experts will discuss the challenges faced by the aviation sector and exchange ideas and strategies to address them, they added.

The top speakers lined up include Omar Bin Ghaleb, the deputy director general, Department of Civil Aviation Authority, UAE; Dr Peter Heath, the chancellor, American University of Sharjah; Abdul Wahab Tefaha, secretary general, Arab Air Carriers Organization (AACO); Fouad Attar, the president, Airbus Middle East; Dr Majdi Sabri, the regional VP, IATA and Chris Taylor, the VP at Spectrum Capital UK and Adel Ali, Group CEO of Air Arabia.

“Following the success of inaugural event in 2011, we are proud to announce the return of the summit. At a time of ongoing change in aviation industry, the event will serve as a timely platform for dialogue and exchange of ideas between two key stakeholders – industry participants and media,” remarked Adel Ali.

“The growth of the region’s aviation sector has greatly increased mobility in the Arab world by making air travel within the reach of most people. The summit will look at what more needs to be done to further positively influence trend of mobility and increased intra-Arab connectivity,” said Ali.

The one day summit will see insightful panel discussions about the Arab Aviation in Global emerging economies, and measuring the impact of Arab spring on regional aviation - which will be followed by master classes designed for media and students.

A white paper, based on deliberations of participants, will be presented at the conclusion of the summit.-TradeArabia News Service

New user-friendly info systems for Dubai airport

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:43:12 GMT

Dubai Airports launched today cutting-edge way-finding technology that will put all the information passengers need to navigate their way through the world’s fourth busiest airport at their fingertips.

The new portfolio of way-finding technologies, which embodies Dubai Airports’ new service-orientated branding, includes integrated Information Zones, sleek new maps of the airport and 40-inch LCD touchscreens that provide real-time and easy-to-understand directions to boarding gates, restaurants and other facilities at Dubai International.

Dubai International’s traditional information desks are being replaced with state-of-the-art Information Zones, a one-stop shop that will instantly provide information on all the airport’s services and facilities as well as assist with boarding and security procedures.
The zones will house way-finding touchscreens in addition to staff trained to deal with all passenger queries. Passengers will be able to choose a medium that suits them best with the new facilities conveniently located across all three terminals.

The Information Zones, designed by local boutique Almax Design, will also have new static maps where passengers can familiarise themselves with the layout of the terminals and locate all retail, food and beverage and entertainment services. Printed map cards will also be available at these kiosks which passengers can take away with them.

In addition to the Information Zones, separate touchscreens and terminal maps will be found at standalone kiosks located across the airport. The 40-inch LCD touchscreens – developed by ATM provider NCR – boast new technology that allows passengers to scan their boarding passes and get directions directly to their gate. The simple to use screens will allow passengers with even the most basic computer skills to navigate them with ease, said a statement.

“Service and innovation have long been the hallmark of Dubai, and form the foundation upon which the emirate’s economic success has been built. These new way-finding technologies are just another example of how Dubai and Dubai Airports are maintaining that proud tradition and leading the way when it comes to service,” said Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman of Dubai Airports.

“With more than 50 million people catching more than 300,000 flights from our airport every year, providing the right information to our passengers as soon as it is requested is vital to maintaining our high service standards,” said Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports.

“The new technology unveiled today, together with our highly competent staff, takes our service to a new level and brings us a step closer to our aim of becoming the world’s best airport.” - TradeArabia News Service

British Airways names manager for N Africa

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:43:12 GMT

British Airways has appointed Sarah Cain as its commercial manager for North Africa, responsible for Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia, Libya and Algeria.

In the five years she has been with the airline, Sarah, has fulfilled a number of customer service and commercial roles, most recently at IAG as the British Airways World Cargo key account manager for UK and Ireland sales.

Her experience includes project managing onboard catering changes for the North African Routes and working on the team that ensured the success of Terminal 5.

“British Airways has committed to putting the customer at the heart of our business. I hope my breadth of experience across the company and customer service knowledge, combined with the expertise of the local sales teams, contributes to us achieving this in these important North African markets,” Cain said. – TradeArabia News Service